By Fatou Camara II
The Gambia government has swung into action in getting distressed Gambian women in Lebanon evacuated.
Dozens of Gambian women working in Lebanon have asked the government to help them return home as they continue to face difficulty surviving in the country.
The women who are in groups and often crowded in small rooms had earlier this month told The Fatu Network the coronavirus pandemic coupled with a massive explosion a few weeks ago which killed 135 people have compounded matters for them in the country.
“The consul isn’t telling us anything clear. We’re here suffering and don’t have anything to eat. We’re here crowded in one room. We want to come home. It’s a lot of us and we’re in groups. In our group we’re seven,” Mariama, 30, who is one of the women had told The Fatu Network earlier this month.
On Thursday, the women staged a protest outside the Gambian consul’s office in Beirut demanding assistance.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman Saikou Ceesay told The Fatu Network efforts were at an ‘advanced’ stage for the women to be evacuated.
“Efforts are underway and are at an advanced stage to repatriate the girls, for them reunite with their families and loved ones,” Mr Ceesay said.
He quickly added: “As at now, 36 emergency passports have been prepared and ready, working on their repatriation in due course but I cannot give you any specific timeline as of when we can expect them in the country.”
